TOP GUN | IWC Schaffhausen

CERATANIUM® IS THE NEW BLACK

UNCOMPROMISING ENGINEERING, ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE

Tough, tougher, TOP GUN: Highly advanced technical performance materials are the signature feature of IWC’s TOP GUN models in the pilot’s watches range. They take their name from the legendary Navy Fighter Weapons School, where the U.S. Navy trains their elite pilots in flying and tactical skills. TOP GUN watches are engineered using extremely robust, resilient, and corrosion-resistant materials like ceramic, titanium and Ceratanium® to withstand even the extreme strain pilots can experience in the cockpit of a supersonic jet.

A MATERIAL FROM THE FUTURE, ROOTED IN THE PAST

After pioneering the use of Ceramics and Titanium during the 1980s, IWC’s material engineers have succeeded in combining the unique strengths of these two materials: Ceratanium® is light and robust like titanium and, at the same time, similarly hard and scratch-resistant like ceramic. The case components are machined from a specially formulated Titanium alloy which is forged to IWC’s specifications. After being finished elaborately by hand, they are treated in a kiln at high temperatures. During this process, they obtain their outstanding material properties and striking matte black colour.

With the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar TOP GUN Ceratanium, IWC takes the use of this innovative new material one step further and presents the first timepiece ever with a Ceratanium® bracelet. About 30 per cent lighter than steel, the new bracelet provides unparalleled wearing comfort on the wrist.

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TOUGH ON THE OUTSIDE, SOPHISTICATED ON THE INSIDE

IWC’s TOP GUN range of watches are powered by the latest in-house movement technology from our 52000, 82000 or 69000 calibre families. These robust movements are engineered to perform flawlessly in the harshest environments and deliver maximum precision and reliability. The making of our components and the assembly of our movements are accompanied by integrated quality management with controls at every step of the process. Before leaving the IWC Manufakturzentrum, every assembled and regulated movement undergoes a comprehensive 500-hour test to check its functionality and accuracy.